Contributed by – Healthians Team
Women get so much accomplished every day. They make the constant juggle between work, home, kids and social life seem so effortless. But, even after getting so much done the amazing women often tend to ignore themselves. This makes them much more susceptible to health issues. Weight is one of such problem that has a maximum population of women under its grasp.
With age, it is common for women to gain extra kilos. Most women find it difficult to shed those extra inches. What makes losing weight so hard? Is it women who find losing weight more difficult? Several studies have shown that it is more difficult for women to lose unwanted weight. But, what really causes the difference?
Let us discuss the various factors that act as hurdles between women and their healthy weight.
Reasons Of Slow Weight Loss In Women
There are various reasons that can interfere with the weight loss process. For women the major hurdles are;
Physical Buildup
The physical build-up of women and men is very different. Men are naturally broader and need more calories to maintain their desired weight. They also have more muscle mass and a faster digestive system. Thus, women take more time to digest the same amount of calories which ends up as the extra fat on the body. This makes it difficult for them to shed the extra weight quickly.
Slower Digestive System
Women also have a slower metabolism as compared to men. With age, the digestive system also suffers and diminishes significantly in its performance. As we all know faster metabolism means more weight loss; thus, slower metabolism in women makes them more susceptible to weight loss.
Health Conditions
Various underlying health conditions like diabetes, polycystic ovaries can also act as hurdles in losing weight. Thyroid hormones regulate the metabolic process and imbalance in thyroid hormones can cause a major disturbance in the body. Not enough production of thyroid hormones causes hypothyroidism which prevents weight loss. Women are more prone to thyroid disorders.
Hormonal Imbalance
Another common factor that affects weight loss is hormonal imbalance. It is important to get checked in case of any symptom for timely detection. The female hormones estrogen and progesterone contribute to stronger food cravings in women.
Unhealthy Eating Habits
Unhealthy eating habits often stand in your way of gaining healthy weight. Untimely meals, binge eating, having meals with large portion sizes etc. Crash diets might be popular but are not at all a wise way to lose weight. Crash diets often leave you craving for unhealthy foods, binge eating is a common side effect of crash diet. A healthy mix of all the important nutrients like protein, carbs, fats not only makes a healthy meal but also helps lose weight. Women generally feel the need to finish off the leftovers on their kid’s plate only adds on the calories that gradually ends up on your body leading to unhealthy weight gain. Irresponsible choice of food is another factor that needs attention. Avoid junk, fried and oily foods; go for healthy and fresh food options.
Drinking Less Water
Not drinking enough water throughout the day is another reason. Water helps get rid of the toxins and aids in weight loss. So, start gulping down at least 3-4 liters of water every day.
Lack Of Sleep
Not resting enough and improper sleeping pattern can also affect the weight loss. Women often ignore their health which affects their life in long run.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle is another factor, sitting at one place for hours without any physical movement has become the reality for most of the working women today. Lack of physical exertion is another reason. Thus, it is important to take out at least 30 mins daily for exercise.
Emotional Factors
Women are undoubtedly more emotional and are therefore more prone to emotional eating. Also, termed as distress or stress eating makes women its prey. Several studies claim that men are more equipped at handling food cravings than women. Women often tend to snack, binge eating when in stress, depressed, lonely or emotionally affected.
Women, you rule the world. Start ruling your own health and understanding the power of good health. That will only help you to grow your family and career better.
